Bhutan

Bhutan, a tiny landlocked country hidden high in the eastern Himalayas, is roughly the size of Switzerland at 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 mi2). Surrounded by India, with whom major economic links exist, and bordered by Nepal (China) in the north, it is known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon—or more romantically, the “hidden Shangri-La.” The magnificent scenery, high mountain peaks, rice paddies, and religious temples and spaces make for a mind-challenging experience in this unique country and culture.

The main religion is Vajrayana Buddhism (80%), followed by Hinduism. Bhutan is known for its many religious spaces in the form of Dzongs (monasteries) and hallowed areas, where billow flags on tall poles and strings of colorful flags are stretched across rivers and between valleys—all reciting a ...